In 1995, a Chabad House was established in Buenos Aires by Rabbi Shlomo Levy. Over the years, this vibrant center has grown, attracting young Jewish professionals and students eager to engage with their heritage and build meaningful connections within the Jewish community. Ten years ago, Rabbi Levy’s son, Rabbi Zalman Levy opened the Young Jewish Professionals center in the heart of Argentina.
Rabbi Levy, who was born and raised on Shlichus in Argentina explains to Collive “Due to a lack of dorming, local college campus students find themselves far from their schools and are looking for a Jewish connections and places to learn about being Jewish.”
The Young Jewish Professionals events play that crucial role in bringing together individuals who often reside in different parts of the city. The goal is simple but profound – to foster a strong Jewish community where people can meet, learn, and grow in their Jewish connection.
Argentina is home to an estimated 200,000 Jews, with approximately 30,000 students and young professionals among them. Many of these young adults are unaffiliated with any other Jewish organization and may face challenges when seeking opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals. Often, they end up intermarrying or drifting away from their Jewish roots. Recognizing this need for a sense of community and belonging, the Chabad House embarked on a mission to provide a welcoming space for young Jewish individuals.
In 2015, the Chabad House organized “Shabbat 500,” an event that brought together 500 students and young professionals to celebrate Shabbat. The following years saw exponential growth, with “Shabbos 1000” and “Shabbos 1500” being resounding successes. Unfortunately, the pandemic temporarily halted these gatherings, but this year, they brought it back!
Rabbi Levy’s most recent “Shabbat 1500” was an unforgettable experience. Drawing attendees from Chile, Uruguay, Brazil, and other parts of Argentina, this communal Shabbat created an atmosphere of togetherness. Friday night’s meal, held in a convention center, featured inspiring speeches by esteemed speakers and an air of holiness for everyone to draw from. The sense of Jewish unity and pride filled the room as Rabbi Shlomo Levy eloquently emphasized the importance of fostering relationships and strengthening Jewish connections.
Beyond the delicious meals and spirited davening, “Shabbat 1500” also offered opportunities for participants to bond with one another. Engaging games, L’chaims, and late-night conversations allowed people to form genuine friendships and connections that will endure beyond this single event.
Rabbi Levy tells us “The impact of “Shabbat 1500” continues to reverberate. A follow-up event, “Reecountour,” is scheduled to welcome back previous attendees, ensuring the continuity of these newfound relationships. “ Rabbi Levy continues, “Even after the Shabbat was closed for booking we had several hundred attempted to register, next year we will aim for at least 2000!” he concludes with excitement for the challenge.
The community also has programs run by Rabbi Levy’s other brothers Rabbi Ari Levy who runs the CTeen programs, and Rabbi Sholom Levy who helped coordinate the logistics for this incredible Shabbat 1500 event.
Additionally, Rabbi Levy has a series of trips, community events, and educational classes in the pipeline, including a historic journey to Spain to explore the rich Jewish heritage.
